At Petaluma Dental Group, we provide only the latest modern and aesthetically pleasing treatments to our patients. As part of this commitment, we place only composite fillings in our practice.
These tooth-colored fillings are as strong and durable as, yet safer and even more aesthetically appealing than their traditional counterparts. As an outcome, we have been able to eliminate metal and amalgam fillings from our practice. Not only are composite fillings much more natural-looking than traditional amalgam fillings, but they are also significantly healthier for the patient.
Amalgam fillings are customarily composed of mercury, which is highly toxic. During chewing, small amounts of mercury may be released into the body, a process that some studies have shown increases mercury levels in the brain and other vital organs. Furthermore, amalgam fillings are more sensitive to temperature change than composite fillings and can expand and contract with time. This phenomenon causes teeth to crack, creating the need for more extensive restoration.
Composite fillings are way more aesthetically pleasing than amalgam. They are formulated in a way to match the remaining teeth in a patient’s mouth. The color of the filling material can also be adjusted so that it doesn’t look unnaturally white or conspicuous in any way. Once settled, composite fillings closely resemble natural tooth matter. The resin material used in composite fillings actually bonds to the structure of the treated tooth, providing greater support and a stronger restoration than is possible with amalgam. Furthermore, because composite fillings bond with the actual teeth, there is no space for decay to form, which can be a problem with mercury or metal fillings. Composite fillings also tend to wear better and last longer than amalgam fillings.
If you currently have traditional amalgam fillings in your mouth, we invite you not to wait for these fillings to fall out or deteriorate before having them replaced. We can exchange your old, outdated mercury fillings for custom-made, wonderfully lifelike composite fillings, improving both the beauty and well-being of your mouth. With adequate maintenance and consistent dental appointments, your new dental fillings in Petaluma, CA, will stay for years and potentially for a lifetime.
A filling may be needed when a tooth has decay or minor damage that weakens its surface. Some people notice sensitivity or discomfort, while others learn they need a filling during a routine dental examination.
In many cases, a filling can repair a small chip or minor crack by rebuilding the damaged portion of the tooth. Larger fractures may require a different type of restoration to provide adequate support.
Once decay has been removed, a filling restores the affected area and helps protect it from further breakdown. However, preventing future cavities still depends on daily oral hygiene habits and regular dental care.
A filling is used when only a portion of the tooth requires repair. A dental crown may be appropriate when a tooth’s damage or weakness extends beyond what can be predictably restored with a filling alone.
Yes. Over time, changes around an existing filling can create areas where new decay may develop. Regular dental appointments enable your dentist to evaluate the integrity of existing fillings and detect potential issues before they progress to more extensive restorative needs.
Yes. Children may need fillings when cavities affect baby teeth or newly erupted permanent teeth. Treating decay early can help children eat comfortably and avoid more extensive dental treatment in the future.
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